Chelsea gets 18-year-old Fire keeper Slonina, loans him back

Posted August 02, 2022 7:00 am

The Associated Press

Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina allows a goal to Vancouver Whitecaps' Lucas Cavallini during the second half of an MLS soccer match Saturday, July 23, 2022, in Vancouver, British Columbia. (Darryl Dyck/The Canadian Press via AP) The Associated Press

CHICAGO (AP) - Goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina was acquired by Chelsea from the Chicago Fire on Tuesday, then loaned back to the Major League Soccer team for the rest of 2022.

Chelsea said he had signed a six-year contract.

Chicago claimed the transfer fee for the 18-year-old was its club record, but did not announce the amount. The Fire said they will receive a percentage of future transfer fees.

Born in Addison, Illinois, Slonina became MLS's youngest starting goalkeeper in August 2021 at 17 years, 81 days, in a 0-0 draw against New York City. He started 11 league matches last season, including the final 10, and has started 23 league matches this season.

Slonina attended U.S. national team training camps in December and January, but did not get into any matches. He has played for the U.S. at several youth national team levels.

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Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina gestures to defenders on where to stand on a Vancouver Whitecaps free kick during the second half of an MLS soccer match Saturday, July 23, 2022, in Vancouver, British Columbia. (Darryl Dyck/The Canadian Press via AP) The Associated Press

Chicago Fire goalkeeper Gabriel Slonina stops Vancouver Whitecaps' Ryan Gauld during the second half of an MLS soccer match Saturday, July 23, 2022, in Vancouver, British Columbia. (Darryl Dyck/The Canadian Press via AP) The Associated Press

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